Arab parties in Israel back Eisenkot bid to unseat Netanyahu

Arab-majority political parties in Israel have announced support for Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief, in his attempt to form an alternative government to that led by Benjamin Netanyahu. The Joint List and Ra'am, which together represent a substantial portion of Israel's Arab citizens, signaled their willingness to back Eisenkot's coalition-building efforts. The move reflects growing political divisions within Israel and the critical role Arab parties have come to play in the country's coalition mathematics. Eisenkot, who previously served as chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces, has emerged as a potential challenger to Netanyahu amid ongoing political tensions and disputes within the prime minister's coalition. The support from Arab parties underscores how fragmented Israeli politics has become, with various blocs seeking viable alternatives to the current government. Coalition negotiations in Israel typically require careful balancing among multiple factions, and Arab party support could prove decisive in any attempt to form a government outside Netanyahu's orbit.